Mo. House Rules Passed on Party-Line Vote

JEFFERSON CITY (AP) - The Missouri House has voted along party lines to approve the chamber's rules for the next two years.

In a move majority Republicans argue will improve transparency, the House on Wednesday revised a procedure for offering changes to amendments during debates on legislation.

Proposed amendments to a given bill already have to be submitted in writing before debate begins. The new rule will require members to submit revisions to amendments in writing as well, rather than simply standing up during debate and offering the proposals aloud.

Democrats fear the rule could make it harder for them to propose changes to amendments.

The House also reduced from five to three the number of its members who will serve on committees appointed to negotiate with the Senate over differences on legislation.